“When you spoke about your book, Living with Enthusiasm, it reminded me of our goal. At Villarreal we have a motto that we live by every day, ‘We Start Strong, Stay Strong, and Finish Strong,’ and this is the message that was expressed in your speech. We teach our students strategies to start, stay, and finish strong, but we need to talk to them about the attitude during those times that test our confidence. We can achieve our goals if we stay positive regardless of the obstacles.” – Joanna Vargas, Teacher at Villarreal Elementary …

Every morning I begin my day by writing these words at the top of goals page. It sets the stage for good things to come and reminds me that I am not alone. I sign the prayer to complete my affirmation. …

“I grabbed Linda’s hand and we proceeded to weave in and out of the crowd lining Disneyland’s Main Street, headed to our destination. At 3 minutes before midnight we stood in front of the castle, and with hundreds of people all around still watching the parade, I handed her an envelope with a card shaped like Aladdin’s lamp that read, “Rub the lamp, close your eyes, and make a wish.” …

“I selected Francisco Martinez’ work for first prize because the young artist created a compelling and timely image with an economy of means. In positioning a section of a chain-link fence over his self-portrait, Francisco sets up a visual tension that suggests many possible meanings, such as referencing the current strife along the Mexico/Texas border or looking at psychological imprisonment of the self. Additionally, in combining disparate materials, Francisco goes beyond one’s usual expectations for a print, proving his ability to think outside the box.” -David S. Rubin, Brown Foundation Curator of Contemporary Art, San Antonio Museum of Art …